IN 2017, RUTTER’S DONATED $50,000 TO CRISPUS ATTUCKS, A COMMUNITY CENTER NAMED AFTER AN ICON OF THE ANTI-SLAVERY/ABOLITIONIST MOVEMENT IN THE UNITED STATES.

Founded in 1931, the Crispus Attucks Association (CAA) began as a place for African Americans to gather for social and recreational activities. Due to segregation, CAA was the only place outside of their homes and churches that they could gather. In 1937, the need for childcare within the community led to the opening of the childcare center in the same location. Through the expansion of its services, CAA became the bustling hub of York’s African American community.

During times of great turbulence in the York community, such as the 1969 York Race Riot and the ongoing war on drugs and violence, CAA served as a guiding light for peace and equality for all. An initiative conducted by York City officials and community members led to the construction of the community center on South Duke Street and its dedication in 1971 to provide services to the entire community, regardless of race, creed, gender, or religion.

Over the last 86 years, CAA has successfully adjusted to the ever-changing needs of the community, strategically becoming the community’s heart of change. Today, CAA offers programs as educational and supportive solutions to strengthen the York community, providing “not a handout, but a hand up” toward a self-sufficient, quality life for all.